Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) has increased the volumes of goods handled across its ports in the first six weeks of the 2024/2025 financial year.
TPT announced on Friday that its container volumes had risen 10%, while bulk volumes and break-bulk volumes had increased by 5% and 17%, respectively, for the period as a result of its staff’s commitment to the group’s turnaround strategy.
However, automotive volumes declined 3% as a result of importers holding high stock levels that forced them to revise their orders. This comes on the back of lower car sales dampened by slow economic growth.
TPT chief executive Jabu Mdaki said compared to the last financial year, which ended on March 31, 2023, port performance was showing signs of recovery.
“We are doing our best to move more volumes despite our shortfalls on equipment and ultimately, key performance indicators,” he said.
TPT has embarked on an equipment acquisition drive, with capital investment estimated at R3.9 billion in the current financial year. It is also focused on improving availability and reliability of the existing fleet during the first phase of the recovery plan.
“A 24-hour maintenance regime is in place to secure the availability and reliability of existing equipment. Original equipment manufacturers are across all terminals providing technical support and supplying critical spares,” TPT said.
Mdaki added that the company was continuing to collaborate with its customers to improve operational efficiency.
“While weather continues to disrupt operations, contingency plans are sufficient and integrated planning and collaboration engagements with customers and industry are ongoing.”
Support from customers has included the supply of equipment, the identification of equipment available globally for purchase, the urgent transportation of equipment, and terminal partnership programmes that promote world-class planning and execution.
Meanwhile, TPT’s container terminals have begun the citrus season with over 200 additional cargo coordinators and port workers, as well as additional capacity across participating terminals.
Mdaki said TPT would maintain good communication with depots and cold stores to achieve maximum flexibility regarding the opening stacks.
“It is crucial for the industry to make use of the entire 24-hour operational window at terminals to ensure a successful season.”
